Ryerson Art+Design Magazine (RADmag) was born out of a vision to create a medium of celebration, inspiration, and collaboration — to celebrate and showcase the work of students in Photography, Fashion, and Interior Design, to provide an outlet to inspire one another and the world at large, and aid in connecting students in these related visual disciplines.

Dare I say it? Although this scorching hot weather may create false hope in our minds...Fall is right around the corner, (AKA welcome back to school). All jokes aside, the start of a new school year brings in a rush of new emotions - whether it be the pure joy of entering your final year, or the sheer anxiety of navigating the (Kerr) halls as a first year. No matter what the feeling, it is always a good idea to arrive prepared - which is why the RADmag team and I have put together a list of top spots around campus to help ease this transition.

“Spend the first week of classes figuring out how to take the best notes for yourself. Just because you got that new MacBook doesn’t mean you need to use Evernote etc. I find that handwriting in Muji notebooks helps me pay attention in class, be more organized, and remember the material” - Graeme Montgomery, Editor in Chief

The Hub

Located on the first floor of the Podium building (P.O.D), The Hub Café has become one of my favourite spots to grab a quick salad in between classes. My go-to includes a trio of mixed greens, feta, cucumbers, carrots, chickpeas, and guacamole (don’t fear, this is not like Chipotle, guac is NOT extra). When I feel like being extra fancy I’ll add in some chicken or falafel for that protein boost. Not only are the portions large, but they are extremely affordable, protein included the salad comes to under $10.

“Keep a detailed calendar from day one. No matter how good you think you are at remembering things, there will come a day when you forget one of five assignments that are due that week” - Sasha Downie-Ross, Content Creator

Elm Street

This street, which sits directly across from the SLC (Student Learning Centre), houses two of my all time favourite lunch spots. Patties Express and TLP Sandwich Co. are both prime lunches for the meat-lovers around campus (however there are vegetarian options). My top choices are two of the spicy beef patties at (Patties Express), which comes to under $5, and The Harrison Sandwich at TLP (which are for those days when I’m ready to splurge).

Patties Express

“Learn how to use the school printers sooner than later. You don’t want to be running around an hour before your paper is due trying to figure them out. Trust me.” - Kira Anderson, Event Manager

Loblaws at Maple Leaf Gardens

Now…I have been dubbed the potato queen more than a few times in my life…so I am confident in saying, I know my potatoes. Located right at Church and Carlton, you will find some of the best fries in the city for under $3. Loblaws is no longer just a grocery store, but the holy grail of hot and cold lunches.

Turner Fleischer

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Step out of your comfort zone - you’ll be surprised at how much you are capable of” - Sidney Tsao, Design Editor

Dineen Coffee Co.

A short walk away from campus, right at the corner of Temperance and Yonge, you will find a darling coffee shop that is more than just instagram worthy. With killer espresso and mouth-watering pastries, Dineen’s is the perfect spot for an afternoon break. Even though this joint is off campus, it is the ultimate filler for those dreaded 3-6 hour gaps in between class.

@ivybregman

“The quinoa burger with a side of onion rings from Oakham Cafe is the only meal you’ll ever need … and … wear pink on wednesdays” - Connor Remus, Managing Editor

7th Floor SLC and Basil Box

With the addition of the SLC, it has become much easier to find a spot on campus to study, whether it be in between classes or before exams. Tip: some floors are much better than others, hence the title (7th Floor SLC). With bright colours filling the walls on most levels, the 7th floor provides much more relaxing experience with white and grey accents. Additionally, the 7th floor is a quiet zone, meaning you have a better chance at getting work done. Better yet you are only steps away from Basil Box which is directly attached to the building - which makes those late night cram sessions much easier to bare. The 7th floor has become a go-to meeting spot for the RADmag team - so, if you spot us pop in and say hello!

@thebasilbox

“Bridges are your friends; learn where they are, and remember how to get to them. Your non-frozen fingers and toes will thank you for it” - Megan Kwan, Copy Editor